GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

  1. Set the parking brake.
  2. Block the rear wheels.
  3. Remove the stabilizer bar from the springs if equipped. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Replacement
  4. Raise the frame until the front tires clear the floor.
  5. Support the axle using a jack. Raise the axle high enough in order to allow the spring to clear the brackets when you remove the spring.
  6. Notice: Do not use the front crossmember to support the vehicle or the crossmember may buckle.

  7. Support the frame using suitable safety stands.

  8. Object Number: 294158  Size: SH
  9. Remove the following components from the lower mounting brackets (6):
  10. 7.1. The nuts (1)
    7.2. The washers (2)
    7.3. The insulators (3)
  11. Push the shock absorbers into the fully retracted position.
  12. Remove the shock absorbers (5).
  13. Remove the insulator (3) and the washer (2) from the shock absorber lower stem.

  14. Object Number: 294161  Size: SH
  15. Remove the nuts from the front and rear eye bolts. Loosen the upper rear shackle bolt in order to allow the hanger to pivot.
  16. Remove the nuts (5) the washers (6) and the U-bolts (1). Lower the axle (4) far enough in order to relieve the tension on the spring.
  17. Remove the front eye bolt.
  18. Remove the rear eye bolt.
  19. Remove the following components from the vehicle:
  20. • The spring.
    • The spring spacers (3).
    • The U-bolt upper spacer (8).

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 294161  Size: SH

    Important: Assemble all of the components and remove all of the jacks and lifting devices before you tighten the suspension fasteners.

  1. Install the spring.
  2. Install the rear eye bolt and nut.
  3. 2.1. Raise the axle (4) in order to support the spring.
    2.2. Install the spring spacers (3) and the U-bolt spacer (8) on the spring.
    2.3. Align the spring center bolt to the axle.

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  4. Install the front eye bolt and nut.
  5. Tighten
    Tighten the eye bolts to 330 N·m (243 lb ft).

  6. Install the U-bolts (1), the washers (6) and the nuts (5).
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the U-bolt nuts to 400 N·m (295 lb ft).


    Object Number: 294158  Size: SH
  8. Install the flat washer (2) and the insulator (3) onto the shock absorber lower stem.
  9. Install the shock absorber (5) into the lower mounting bracket (6).
  10. Install the following components:
  11. 7.1. The insulators (3)
    7.2. The flat washers (2)
    7.3. The nut (1)

    Tighten
    Tighten the lower shock absorber nut to 84 N·m (62 lb ft).

  12. Remove the safety stands.
  13. Lower the vehicle.
  14. Install the stabilizer bar to the springs. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Replacement .